It is alleged that Hendricks was sent by her mother to a nearby shop to buy diapers on Wednesday morning. She never returned home.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Majola Nkohli said the man was arrested on Sunday evening after leading police to a shack in Moegesukkel informal settlement where the girl’s body was discovered.

Nkholi said that at this stage it was uncertain who the shack belonged to.

“A very few people saw her body so I cannot elaborate on injuries sustained. The forensic expert at the scene did not want anyone to tamper with the scene. A family member was at the scene to identify the body,” said Nkholi.

He added that a post mortem would be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

Nkholi said the suspect faced a charge of murder and there was a possibility of more charges being added.